Choosing the Best Hiking Boots for the Type of Trail and Time of Year

Trail Shoes
We recommend Trail Shoes for walking on well established, smooth trails and are usually the best hiking boots for short hikes or day walks in dry climate. These boots, under 2½ pounds, are more commonly known as lightweights. They resemble a combination running shoe/boot, and are generally constructed of suede, fabric, leather or nylon mesh, which make them ideal for summer hiking adventures. Some lightweight hiking boots weigh in at barely more than a pound. These are less for protecting the feet and ankles from rocky terrain and more for providing protection to the bottom of the foot. These are the best hiking boots for comfort, cushioning and breathability. The casual hiker will love these as their best hiking boots, while the backpacker will limp into camp.

Trail Hikers
The best hiking boots for longer, more rugged trails, require something sturdier like Trail Hikers. They have the tread on the bottom, usually a vibram or lug sole, which is needed for rocky ground. This sole can provide better traction while ascending and descending inclines and even on muddy terrain. These higher-cut boots will provide added stability and ankle protection against protruding branches and rocks, or even snakes that may be encountered in the wild. Trail hikers, also called middleweights, weigh 2½ pounds or more and are usually made of all leather and have decent weatherproofing. These are the best hiking boots suitable for most light to moderate backpacking loads and winter hiking conditions.

Mountaineering Boots
If you have planned multi-day trips which may involve scaling steep mountain faces, you will need Mountaineering Boots. These durable alpine boots are the best hiking boots for rough or steep terrain where you may need to attach crampons for a better grip on glaciers or hard-packed snow. For this reason, you want a rigid boot with a stiff sole to give your ankles extra support and protection as you climb on extremely challenging terrain. These are the best hiking boots for on- and off-trail hiking with moderate to heavy backpacking loads.